MAURITIUS
- – A TROPICAL PARADISE
Mauritius is an Island nation located in the Indian Ocean. The country includes the island of Mauritius, Rodrigues and the outer islands. The Island is so beautiful that Mark Twain once wrote, 'Mauritius was made first and then heaven, heaven being copied after Mauritius' If you have been to Mauritius then you couldn’t agree more. It is quickly becoming the favorite vacation destination of the travelers from around the world because from relaxations to adventures Mauritius has it all. No other place on earth has as many bird species as Mauritius, as a result of which there are now two beautiful species of birds created the pink pigeon and the Mauritian kestrel. The island’s rich biodiverse marine environment boasts Giant tortoises, roaming freely, dolphins, whales and sharks. The beaches are perfect. The sapphire-blue waters are so welcoming you can always indulge in it boat excursions paddling activities or other water sports. The cuisine is also excellent. So what else would you want in an Ideal place to make it to your itinerary.
History
Around 1510, Mauritius was visited by Europeans, probably by the Portugese. The name however was given by the Dutch, who had settled in the Island in the year 1598, after their Prince Maurice of Nassau. The Dutch also introduced sugar cane and the Java deer. The Dutch left in the year 1710. The Island was again captured by the French in the year 1715 and renamed it “Isle de France". Mauritius started developing under the French Governor, Mahé de Labourdonnais. A harbour was built and trade also flourished on the island as it could supply enough sugar and rum to the surrounding islands. Again in 1810, the Island was conquered by theBritish. Many of the French who had already settled there stayed there and carried on with their customs, religion and laws. Few years later, in 1835, the British abolished slavery, who were brought from Madagasca so the Indian indentured laborers were then made to work in the sugar cane fields, who eventually settled there and it’s their descendants that constitute the majority of the population nowadays. Development in Mauritius continued and primary education was also given to the population for free so that the local civil servants could be trained and given responsibility to run certain affairs of the country. On 12 March 1968, Mauritius became independent. At first it was a little difficult for the country but after more than 15 years or so of hard work and targeted planning Mauritius finally did achieve economic and political stability The Constitution of Mauritian is based on the Westminster model.
Culture & Tradition
The culture of Mauritius is a blend of several cultures from its history. It is basically based on the diversity of the population. Mauritius therefore respect free practice of religion and doesn’t have an official religion. People of various trade and culture and religion live here together in peace and harmony. Mauritius has one very interesting tradition; the “Sundowner Tradition” where you get a perfect opportunity to spend your entire day just lying on the white sandy beaches of Mauritius and enjoy the breath seizing sight of the sun set sipping on the local cocktail drink of Mauritius. Mauritius has may other hidden talents like in the field of rum, manufacturing clothing and the greatest talent of all is the model ship which is built in the workshops of the Islands. This is the tradition that has been there since its Independence. The Mauritians are into different kinds of music but they do have their traditional music like Séga and Seggae. The cuisine of Mauritius is also influenced by China, Europe and India. Many of the dishes from French cuisine have become very popular though.
Places to Visit
Grand Bassin :
This a lake high up in the mountains and the most sacres place of Hindus of Mauritius. There is a temple up there of Lord Shiva. It is believed that the waters are holy as the waters are from the River Ganges in India.
Champ de Mars in Port Louis :
This is the oldest in the southern hemisphere where you can just enjoy canapés and drinks and try your luck by betting on the horses. The environment will get you once you are out.
Chamarel Waterfall :
This is the highest waterfall in Mauritius. The height is around 100 meters. You have to climb up a stairs to get the best view of the fall. The sight is just magical.
Black River Gorges National Park :
The spot provides an excellent opportunity to the hikers, with its thick forests and rich wildlife. The forest homes over 300 species of flowering plants.
Grand Baie :
This is a cosmopolitan resort well known for great nightlife, perfect shopping hub and restaurants serving best of cuisines. It also offers its visitors with a variety of water sports like diving, sailing, waterskiing and windsurfing.
